Takalani Sesame celebrates 25 years of enriching South African children's lives
Over the past 25 years, Takalani Sesame has transformed early childhood education in South Africa. What began as a pioneering television show has become a cultural mainstay, reaching over 7 million viewers and being embraced by 95% of households with young children.
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For 25 years, Takalani Sesame has been a trusted companion to millions of South African children, sparking joy and encouraging curiosity through beloved characters and culturally relevant stories.
This year, Sesame Workshop South Africa is celebrating its quarter-century milestone with a partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) aimed at driving early childhood development (ECD) registration across the country.
The initiative forms part of the DBE’s Bana Pele (Putting Children First) campaign.
“For 25 years, Takalani Sesame has stood for smarter, stronger and kinder children,” said Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, Managing Director of Sesame Workshop South Africa. “So, as we celebrate this milestone, we are thrilled to join hands with the Department of Basic Education to deepen our impact.”
The campaign urges parents and guardians to support their local ECD centres to register with the DBE. Registration is free and opens the door to government support, including access to the recently announced R10 billion subsidy that will expand early learning opportunities for poor children.
Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, welcomed the collaboration. “Children are South Africa’s greatest assets and this partnership with Sesame Workshop aligns with our vision to put our youngest citizens first and prioritise early learning as a national imperative,” she said.
“By registering with the Department, parents and centres are helping secure brighter futures for our youngest citizens.”
Dr Nwaneri said early childhood development is both a social necessity and an economic strategy. “ECD extends beyond education. It lays the groundwork for lifelong health, learning, and overall wellbeing,” she said.
“Equally important, investing in quality early learning drives skills development, stimulates job creation, and fosters a more inclusive economy. These outcomes are pivotal for advancing South Africa’s long-term growth and prosperity.”
“This campaign is about much more than just celebrating 25 years of success. It is also a call to action to the nation to work together to make sure no child is left behind,” Dr Nwaneri said.
“Whether it’s through registering, ensuring early stimulation of children or simply spreading the word, everyone has a role to play in ensuring every child has the opportunity to be the best they can be.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za